Paul's Story

Paul’s diagnosis of terminal Motor Neurone Disease at the age of 57 was a total turning point for this entrepreneurial and extremely active family man. With a prognosis of possibly just two years left to live, Paul determined to make the most of every day and take each opportunity afforded him. Paul immediately embarked upon a remarkable bucket list journey of travel and adventure. He had the time of his life while also coming to understand what truly matters in life, witnessing the compassionate side of human nature while beginning to fully acknowledge what is truly important for a happier and more contented life.

At his time of diagnosis, Paul shared that he was devastated, confused, and angry.  Since then, Paul has spent a great amount of time fundraising and taking part in various challenges all with the aim of finding a cure for MND – he has even written a book!

On 7^th September 2025, Paul is hosting a family fun day and attempting to break 4 Guinness World Records – all to raise funding for finding a MND cure – keep reading to find out more! 

MND is an incredibly complex disease. Everyone’s symptoms are different, and the progression rate is varied, and unpredictable. It takes a long time to be diagnosed with MND, because there is no simple test. It’s a diagnosis by excluding all other possibilities.

Physically it can be hard, as there is less and less that I can do for myself. I have to rely on my full-time carer, family and friends most of the time. Mentally however, I’m still strong. I like finding solutions to problems, and I have many coping strategies. I treat my disability as a challenge to stay strong in the mind, which, so far, I’ve managed to do.

Yes. I’m lucky to have good support from my lovely family and amazing friends. I’ve seen the good side of human nature, since my diagnosis. They keep me going and staying strong. I’m very fortunate and can’t thank them enough.

There is a cure for MND out there somewhere, it just needs funding, and I wanted to do my bit to help. I also enjoy the fundraising events; it keeps me busy and my mind focused.

My first big fundraiser was to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, and play tennis at the top. It was a record for the highest altitude game of tennis ever played. I then climbed Mont Blanc, and the Matterhorn. Last year I did a bungee jump and tandem skydive, which very nearly ended up in disaster. I think I have raised about £200k for MND charities.

Very Much Alive is an inspiring and uplifting story full of love and laughter. It shows how a diagnosis of terminal illness taught one person how to live better and find real meaning in life. Although death and dying are difficult topics, this book is a beautifully written, easy-to-read page turner that will keep readers engaged from the outset and leave them truly inspired.

All profits from the sale of the book will be donated to the MND Association.

Yes. Four Guinness World Records in a day at the iconic Dunsfold aerodrome near Cranleigh, on September 7th. Two speed records being pushed in a wheelchair, two being pulled by 6 husky dogs.

Yes. There will be live music, a marching band, food and drink stalls, and for the children; husky facepainting. It will be a lot of fun. The event really caught everyone’s imagination, and we’re expecting large crowds. It will be a day like none other.

Paul is attempting to break 4 Guinness World Records all to raise funds for research into finding a cure for MND. For more information and for tickets to Paul’s event on 7^th September 2025, visit: www.wheelchairworldrecords.co.uk  

The day is open to all, and Paul hopes to see many people there supporting him for a day filled with fun!

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